How to Choose the Best Finish for Wooden Floors
When it comes to protecting and enhancing your newly sanded wood floors, you know what’s key? Choosing the right finish. The finish you select doesn’t just impact the look and feel of your floors but also their durability and maintenance requirements.
Two popular choices are water-based polyurethane lacquer and Hardwax-Oil, each offers unique benefits.
Here’s what you need to know to make the best decision for your home.
Water-Based Polyurethane Lacquer
Water-based polyurethane lacquer is a top choice for those looking for a durable, long-lasting finish. This finish creates a protective layer on the wood surface, making it resilient against daily wear and tear, spills, and scratches. It’s particularly recommended for high-traffic areas where floors are more susceptible to damage, like kitchens and hallways.
A major benefit of lacquer is how well it works with wood floor staining. If you’re looking to add rich color to your floors, lacquer can be applied over a separate color coat, locking in the hue and preserving its vibrancy over time.
With lacquer, your floors maintain a polished, smooth appearance and require minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for busy households.
For professional-grade results, it’s best to consult a reputable floor sanding company that offers comprehensive floor sanding services. They can ensure the lacquer is applied evenly, delivering a flawless finish that enhances your wood’s natural beauty.
Hardwax-Oil
For those who love a natural, matte look, Hardwax-Oil is an excellent choice. Unlike lacquer, Hardwax-Oil soaks directly into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and texture. This finish provides a unique and organic feel underfoot. It is ideal for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Hardwax-Oil is also slower drying, taking around 8 hours to cure, which means it penetrates the wood thoroughly. A major benefit is its flexibility with re-coating. At any moment you can renew the Hardwax-Oil coating without having to sand, saving both time and money.
However, it’s worth noting that Hardwax-Oil may require re-coating more frequently than lacquer, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Needs
To decide which finish is best, consider the function and look you want to achieve. Lacquer is ideal if you want a hard-wearing, low-maintenance finish that protects stained wood floors.
In contrast, Hardwax-Oil is perfect for those who prioritize a natural appearance and don’t mind periodic maintenance.
Regardless of your choice, professional wood floor sanding ensures a smooth, clean surface ready to receive either finish, so be sure to reach out to a reliable floor sanding company. High-quality floor sanding services, like those offered by Floorworks, can make all the difference in the longevity and look of your floors.
In the end, both finishes bring out the beauty of wood floors in distinct ways. By weighing the benefits of lacquer and Hardwax-Oil, you can select a finish that complements your lifestyle and maintains the beauty of your floors for years to come.